The regional premiere of Mel Brooks’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN THE MUSICAL, marks the 10th Anniversary year of Hope Mill Theatre, which opened its doors in October 2015. 

Last seen in London in 2017 at the Garrick Theatre, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN tells the story of the grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, who inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania and finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors.

Adapted by Mel Brooks from his legendary 1974 film starring Gene Wilder, this new production stars TV presenter and Strictly Come Dancing winner Ore Oduba as Dr Frederick Frankenstein. Ore plays the character with equal measures of gentle warmth and crazy insanity, wonderfully complimented by Curtis Patrick, who steals the show as Igor. Looking like a confused squashed fly, he bumbles around, hilariously lurking in his master’s shadow.

The show also stars Jessica Martin as Frau Blücher, Rhiannon Chesterman as Elizabeth Benning, Pete Gallagher as The Monster,  Simeon Truby as Inspector Hans Kemp/Harold the Hermit and Julie Yammanee as Inga.

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN doesn’t take itself seriously and is typical Mel Brooks style of comedy. The cast have huge energy and the production values West End quality.

Young Frankenstein is a fun night out, an easy watch and with some great performances. The West End currently has another Mel Brooks classic, The Producers storming the stage and Manchester now has Young Frankenstein. Why not make a weekend of it and see both!

★★★

West End Wilma

Young Frankenstein plays at the Hope Mill Theatre until 30 November 2025 (it will then head to Liverpool Playhouse for a limited Christmas season from 3 December 2025 – 3 January 2026 – cast to be announced).